Kristen Dieffenbach was a stand-out athlete at Cedarburg High School, earning eight varsity letters in cross country (1984-87) and track (1985-88).  She was a captain, team MVP and all-conference performer in both sports and held school records in the 1600 meter and 3200 meter run.  She was also part of the 4x800 meter school record relay team. 

Her outstanding performance extended to the state level, as she qualified for and competed in the 3200 meter run at the 1987 and 1988 WIAA state track meet, finishing in 7^th and 13^th place respectively.  She also qualified for the WIAA state cross country meet in 1987.

Following her graduation from CHS, Dieffenbach competed in both cross country and track at the NCAA Division 1 level for four years at Boston University.  After graduation, she returned to Cedarburg for a brief period to serve as an assistant coach with the boys’ cross country and track teams, making a lasting impact her athletes.

Dieffenbach later earned a doctorate in exercise and sport science from the University of North Carolina and now is an assistant professor of athletic coaching education at West Virginia University.  She also is a certified sport psychology consultant with the United States Olympic Committee.